U.S. patent application number 11/562015 was filed with the patent office on 2007-06-14 for talking book.
Invention is credited to Ping QU.
Application Number | 20070136066 11/562015 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36994167 |
Filed Date | 2007-06-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070136066 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
QU; Ping |
June 14, 2007 |
TALKING BOOK
Abstract
The present inventions discloses a combination of a book and a
voice phonation apparatus comprising a book having a plurality of
pages, at least one of which is carrying a plurality of printed
words and a plurality of codes associated with said words, said
printed words being divided into a plurality of segments; and a
voice phonation apparatus forming an integral part of said book and
comprising (i) a housing with a plurality of switches and a
plurality of keys, (ii) a voice output unit, and (iii) a control
unit having a memory for storing data representing spoken words and
connected to said switches, said keys, and said voice output unit;
wherein said control unit is capable of assuming a plurality of
operational modes and carrying out at least the following steps:
(i) receiving said codes inputted via said keys into said control
unit; (ii) causing the control unit to extract said data
representing spoken word(s) associated with said codes from said
memory; and (iii) causing the voice output unit to audibly
reproduce said spoken word(s). The combination of a book and a
voice phonation apparatus adopts code key-press input and search
method free from text input, providing the advantages of quick
search, simple configuration, low cost, and convenient to
operation. It can be used widely for the learning and communication
of words, phrases, articles, and songs of various national
languages, so as to improve the language learning of various
nations and drive the harmonic cooperation of the international
community.
Inventors: |
QU; Ping; (Shenzhen,
CN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MATTHIAS SCHOLL
14781 MEMORIAL DRIVE
SUITE 1319
HOUSTON
TX
77079
US
|
Family ID: |
36994167 |
Appl. No.: |
11/562015 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
704/260 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09B 19/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
704/260 |
International
Class: |
G10L 13/08 20060101
G10L013/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 8, 2005 |
CN |
200510120606.X |
Claims
1. A combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus
comprising: a book having a plurality of pages, at least one of
which is carrying a plurality of printed words and a plurality of
codes associated with said words, said printed words being divided
into a plurality of segments; and a voice phonation apparatus
forming an integral part of said book and comprising (i) a housing
with a plurality of switches and a plurality of keys, (ii) a voice
output unit, and (iii) a control unit having a memory for storing
data representing spoken words and connected to said switches, said
keys, and said voice output unit; wherein said control unit is
capable of assuming a plurality of operational modes and carrying
out at least the following steps: (i) receiving said codes inputted
via said keys into said control unit; (ii) causing the control unit
to extract said data representing spoken word(s) associated with
said codes from said memory; and (iii) causing the voice output
unit to audibly reproduce said spoken word(s).
2. The combination of claim 1, wherein said spoken words contain
one or more of: characters, words, phrases, sentences, articles,
and songs in at least one language and an intertranslation into at
least one additional language.
3. The combination of claim 1, wherein said switches comprise one
or more of the following: a POWER ON/RESET switch, a POWER OFF
switch, a REPEAT switch, a CONTINUOUS READ switch, a PAUSE switch,
a LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch, a VOLUME SETTING switch, a KEYPAD TONE
SETTING switch; wherein the POWER ON/RESET switch and the POWER OFF
switch are preferential operating switches; and pressing any one of
said preferential switches interrupts any operational modes assumed
by said control unit.
4. The combination of claim 1, wherein said operational modes
comprise one or more of standby mode, setting mode, and segment
operation mode; and said segment operation mode further comprises
one or more of single read mode, repeat mode, continuous read mode,
and semi-reset mode.
5. The combination of claim 4, wherein said standby mode is assumed
when said POWER ON/RESET switch is pressed; said REPEAT switch,
said CONTINUOUS READ switch, and said PAUSE switch are disabled in
said standby mode; said setting mode allows for selecting a
language in which said spoken words are read by pressing said
LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch; pressing said VOLUME SETTING switch or a
combination of said keys allows for an increase or a decrease of
the volume of spoken words or key tones audibly reproduced by said
voice output unit; optionally, pressing of any of said switches or
keys causes the voice output unit to audibly display a key tone
after said KEYPAD TONE SETTING switch or a combination of said keys
is pressed; and said standby mode is assumed automatically after
said setting mode is completed.
6. The combination of claim 5, wherein said code is selected from a
segment code and a word code each having one or two numeric digits;
said segment code is inputted first followed by said word code;
said segment operation mode is assumed when said segment code is
inputted as a two digit number, said segment code is inputted as a
one digit number and no other keys are pressed for a predetermined
amount of setting time, 0 is inputted, or an invalid word code is
inputted; said word code can only be inputted in said segment
operation mode; said REPEAT switch, said CONTINUOUS READ switch,
and said PAUSE switch are disabled during said predetermined amount
of setting time; said standby mode is assumed when 0 or an invalid
segment code is inputted, or said POWER ON/RESET switch is
pressed;
7. The combination of claim 6, wherein while in a single read mode,
if the word code inputted is a two digit number, a spoken word
corresponding to said word code will be audibly reproduced
immediately; if the word code inputted is a one digit number, a
spoken word corresponding to said word code will be audibly
reproduced after said predetermined amount of setting time but only
if no other switch or key is pressed during said predetermined
amount of setting time; said REPEAT switch, said CONTINUOUS READ
switch, or said key(s) can be inputted during said predetermined
amount of setting time, but if said REPEAT switch and said
CONTINUOUS READ switch are inputted only the first inputted switch
will be valid; if one said key is inputted and no other key is
pressed during said predetermined amount of setting time, a spoken
word corresponding to a word code corresponding to one said digit
inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; if multiple keys
are inputted during said predetermined amount of setting time, a
spoken word corresponding to a word code comprised of first two
digits inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; said PAUSE
switch is invalid.
8. The combination of claim 7, wherein, while in the single read
mode, when pressing said REPEAT switch, the single read mode will
be repeated once after it is finished and the semi-reset mode has
been entered upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically; while in the semi-reset mode, when pressing said
REPEAT switch, the single repeat mode executed last will be
repeated upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically.
9. The combination of claim 8, wherein while in a single read mode,
when pressing said CONTINUOUS READ switch, said continuous read
mode will be assumed immediately once the semi-reset mode is
assumed after the operation of single read mode is finished so as
to audibly reproduce spoken words starting from the word following
the word currently being audibly reproduced and ending with the
last word in said segment; while in a semi-reset mode, when
pressing said CONTINUOUS READ switch, said continuous read mode
will be assumed immediately so as to audibly reproduce spoken words
starting from the word being audibly reproduced last and ending
with the last word in said segment; the semi-reset mode will be
operated automatically after the operation of continuous read mode
is finished; if the PAUSE switch is pressed during audible
reproducing of words, the continuous read mode will be paused
immediately once the phonation of current voice is finished; if the
PAUSE switch is pressed many times, only the odd pressings are
valid; if the PAUSE switch is pressed within the interval of
setting time after the phonation of said voice is finished, the
continuous read mode will be paused immediately, and will be
continued by pressing the PAUSE key again; the REPEAT switch, the
CONTINUOUS READ switch, and the keys are invalid under the
continuous read mode; and the continuous read mode is interrupted
immediately by pressing the POWER ON/RESET key and the semi-reset
mode is assumed immediately.
10. The combination of claim 9, wherein said semi-reset mode is
assumed automatically after said single read mode, said repeat
mode, or said continuous read mode is finished, or by pressing said
POWER ON/RESET switch during said continuous read mode; while in
said semi-reset mode, the original inputted voice can be repeated
or read continuously and another voice code also can be inputted;
and pressing said POWER ON/RESET switch interrupts said semi-reset
mode immediately and said standby mode is assumed immediately;
11. A method for authoring a combination of a book and a voice
phonation apparatus comprising (a) providing a voice phonation
apparatus forming an integral part of a book and comprising (i) a
housing with a plurality of switches and a plurality of keys, (ii)
a voice output unit, and (iii) a control unit having a memory for
storing data representing spoken words and connected to said
switches, said keys, and said voice output unit; (b) providing said
book having a plurality of pages, at least one of which is carrying
a plurality of printed words and a plurality of codes associated
with said words, said printed words being divided into a plurality
of segments; (c) recording said data representing spoken words in
said memory; and (d) performing a digital classification by
associating a code with each said data representing spoken words to
be phonated by the voice output unit.
12. A method of interactive learning comprising (a) providing a
combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus comprising: a
book having a plurality of pages, at least one of which is carrying
a plurality of printed words and a plurality of codes associated
with said words, said printed words being divided into a plurality
of segments; and a voice phonation apparatus forming an integral
part of said book and comprising (i) a housing with a plurality of
switches and a plurality of keys, (ii) a voice output unit, and
(iii) a control unit having a memory for storing data representing
spoken words and connected to said switches, said keys, and said
voice output unit; wherein said control unit is capable of assuming
a plurality of operational modes and carrying out at least the
following steps: (i) receiving said codes inputted via said keys
into said control unit; (ii) causing the control unit to extract
said data representing spoken word(s) associated with said codes
from said memory; and (iii) causing the voice output unit to
audibly reproduce said spoken word(s); (b) inputting said codes via
said keys into said control unit; (c) causing the control unit to
extract said data representing spoken word(s) associated with said
codes from said memory; and (d) causing the voice output unit to
audibly reproduce said spoken word(s).
13. The method of claim 12, wherein said spoken words contain one
or more of: characters, words, phrases, sentences, articles, and
songs in at least one language and an intertranslation into at
least one additional language.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein said switches comprise one or
more of the following: a POWER ON/RESET switch, a POWER OFF switch,
a REPEAT switch, a CONTINUOUS READ switch, a PAUSE switch, a
LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch, a VOLUME SETTING switch, a KEYPAD TONE
SETTING switch; wherein the POWER ON/RESET switch and the POWER OFF
switch are preferential operating switches; and pressing any one of
said preferential switches interrupts any operational modes assumed
by said control unit.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein said operational modes comprise
one or more of standby mode, setting mode, and segment operation
mode; and said segment operation mode further comprises one or more
of single read mode, repeat mode, continuous read mode, and
semi-reset mode.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein said standby mode is assumed
when said POWER ON/RESET switch is pressed; said REPEAT switch,
said CONTINUOUS READ switch, and said PAUSE switch are disabled in
said standby mode; said setting mode allows for selecting a
language in which said spoken words are read by pressing said
LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch; pressing said VOLUME SETTING switch or a
combination of said keys allows for an increase or a decrease of
the volume of spoken words or key tones audibly reproduced by said
voice output unit; optionally, pressing of any of said switches or
keys causes the voice output unit to audibly display a key tone
after said KEYPAD TONE SETTING switch or a combination of said keys
is pressed; and said standby mode is assumed automatically after
said setting mode is completed.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein said code is selected from a
segment code and a word code each having one or two numeric digits;
said segment code is inputted first followed by said word code;
said segment operation mode is assumed when said segment code is
inputted as a two digit number, said segment code is inputted as a
one digit number and no other keys are pressed for a predetermined
amount of setting time, 0 is inputted, or an invalid word code is
inputted; said word code can only be inputted in said segment
operation mode; said REPEAT switch, said CONTINUOUS READ switch,
and said PAUSE switch are disabled during said predetermined amount
of setting time; said standby mode is assumed when 0 or an invalid
segment code is inputted, or said POWER ON/RESET switch is
pressed;
18. The method of claim 17, wherein while in a single read mode, if
the word code inputted is a two digit number, a spoken word
corresponding to said word code will be audibly reproduced
immediately; if the word code inputted is a one digit number, a
spoken word corresponding to said word code will be audibly
reproduced after said predetermined amount of setting time but only
if no other switch or key is pressed during said predetermined
amount of setting time; said REPEAT switch, said CONTINUOUS READ
switch, or said key(s) can be inputted during said predetermined
amount of setting time, but if said REPEAT switch and said
CONTINUOUS READ switch are inputted only the first inputted switch
will be valid; if one said key is inputted and no other key is
pressed during said predetermined amount of setting time, a spoken
word corresponding to a word code corresponding to one said digit
inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; if multiple keys
are inputted during said predetermined amount of setting time, a
spoken word corresponding to a word code comprised of first two
digits inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; said PAUSE
switch is invalid.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein, while in the single read mode,
when pressing said REPEAT switch, the single read mode will be
repeated once after it is finished and the semi-reset mode has been
entered upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically; while in the semi-reset mode, when pressing said
REPEAT switch, the single repeat mode executed last will be
repeated upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein while in a single read mode,
when pressing said CONTINUOUS READ switch, said continuous read
mode will be assumed immediately once the semi-reset mode is
assumed after the operation of single read mode is finished so as
to audibly reproduce spoken words starting from the word following
the word currently being audibly reproduced and ending with the
last word in said segment; while in a semi-reset mode, when
pressing said CONTINUOUS READ switch, said continuous read mode
will be assumed immediately so as to audibly reproduce spoken words
starting from the word being audibly reproduced last and ending
with the last word in said segment; the semi-reset mode will be
operated automatically after the operation of continuous read mode
is finished; if the PAUSE switch is pressed during audible
reproducing of words, the continuous read mode will be paused
immediately once the phonation of current voice is finished; if the
PAUSE switch is pressed many times, only the odd pressings are
valid; if the PAUSE switch is pressed within the interval of
setting time after the phonation of said voice is finished, the
continuous read mode will be paused immediately, and will be
continued by pressing the PAUSE key again; the REPEAT switch, the
CONTINUOUS READ switch, and the keys are invalid under the
continuous read mode; and the continuous read mode is interrupted
immediately by pressing the POWER ON/RESET key and the semi-reset
mode is assumed immediately.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to a talking book and more
particularly to a combination of a book and a voice phonation
apparatus.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Current talking books allow for phonating of entire book
pages. However, these types of talking books are not easily
adaptable to being used as talking dictionaries or language
learning tools where only single words or phrases may need to be
phonated, and when words and phrases may need to be repeated or
repeated continuously.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Therefore, it is one objective of the present invention to
provide a combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus
adopting a code key-press input and search method with the
advantages of free text input, quick search, low cost, convenient
operation, and portability.
[0006] To achieve the above objective, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a
combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus comprising a
housing, a voice output unit, and a control unit having a
microprocessor and an electronic circuit set therein, wherein the
electronic circuit is connected respectively to the voice output
unit.
[0007] The combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus in
accordance with the present invention comprises a book having a
plurality of pages, at least one of which is carrying a plurality
of printed words and a plurality of codes associated with the
words, the printed words being divided into a plurality of
segments; and a voice phonation apparatus forming an integral part
of the book and comprising (i) a housing with a plurality of
switches and a plurality of keys (for example, at least ten digital
input keys from 0 to 9), (ii) a voice output unit, and (iii) a
control unit having a memory for storing data representing spoken
words and connected to the switches, the keys, and the voice output
unit; wherein the control unit is capable of assuming a plurality
of operational modes and carrying out at least the following steps:
(i) receiving the codes inputted via the keys into the control
unit; (ii) causing the control unit to extract the data
representing spoken word(s) associated with the codes from the
memory; and (iii) causing the voice output unit to audibly
reproduce the spoken word(s).
[0008] In certain class of this embodiment, the spoken words
contain one or more of: characters, words, phrases, sentences,
articles, and songs in at least one language and an
intertranslation into at least one additional language.
[0009] In certain class of this embodiment, the switches comprise
one or more of the following: a POWER ON/RESET switch, a POWER OFF
switch, a REPEAT switch, a CONTINUOUS READ switch, a PAUSE switch,
a LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch, a VOLUME SETTING switch, a KEYPAD TONE
SETTING switch; wherein the POWER ON/RESET switch and the POWER OFF
switch are preferential operating switches; and pressing any one of
the preferential switches interrupts any operational modes assumed
by the control unit.
[0010] In certain class of this embodiment, the operational modes
comprise one or more of standby mode, setting mode, and segment
operation mode; and the segment operation mode further comprises
one or more of single read mode, repeat mode, continuous read mode,
and semi-reset mode.
[0011] In certain class of this embodiment, the standby mode is
assumed when the POWER ON/RESET switch is pressed; the REPEAT
switch, the CONTINUOUS READ switch, and the PAUSE switch are
disabled in the standby mode; the setting mode allows for selecting
a language in which the spoken words are read by pressing the
LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch; pressing the VOLUME SETTING switch or a
combination of the keys allows for an increase or a decrease of the
volume of spoken words or key tones audibly reproduced by the voice
output unit; optionally, pressing of any of the switches or keys
causes the voice output unit to audibly display a key tone after
the KEYPAD TONE SETTING switch or a combination of the keys is
pressed; and the standby mode is assumed automatically after the
setting mode is completed.
[0012] In certain class of this embodiment, the code is selected
from a segment code and a word code each having one or two numeric
digits; the segment code is inputted first followed by the word
code; the segment operation mode is assumed when the segment code
is inputted as a two digit number, the segment code is inputted as
a one digit number and no other keys are pressed for a
predetermined amount of setting time, 0 is inputted, or an invalid
word code is inputted; the word code can only be inputted in the
segment operation mode; the REPEAT switch, the CONTINUOUS READ
switch, and the PAUSE switch are disabled during the predetermined
amount of setting time; the standby mode is assumed when 0 or an
invalid segment code is inputted, or the POWER ON/RESET switch is
pressed.
[0013] In certain class of this embodiment, while in a single read
mode, if the word code inputted is a two digit number, a spoken
word corresponding to the word code will be audibly reproduced
immediately; if the word code inputted is a one digit number, a
spoken word corresponding to the word code will be audibly
reproduced after the predetermined amount of setting time but only
if no other switch or key is pressed during the predetermined
amount of setting time; the REPEAT switch, the CONTINUOUS READ
switch, or the key(s) can be inputted during the predetermined
amount of setting time, but if the REPEAT switch and the CONTINUOUS
READ switch are inputted only the first inputted switch will be
valid; if one the key is inputted and no other key is pressed
during the predetermined amount of setting time, a spoken word
corresponding to a word code corresponding to one the digit
inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; if multiple keys
are inputted during the predetermined amount of setting time, a
spoken word corresponding to a word code comprised of first two
digits inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; the PAUSE
switch is invalid.
[0014] In certain class of this embodiment, while in the single
read mode, when pressing the REPEAT switch, the single read mode
will be repeated once after it is finished and the semi-reset mode
has been entered upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically; while in the semi-reset mode, when pressing the
REPEAT switch, the single repeat mode executed last will be
repeated upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically.
[0015] In certain class of this embodiment, while in a single read
mode, when pressing the CONTINUOUS READ switch, the continuous read
mode will be assumed immediately once the semi-reset mode is
assumed after the operation of single read mode is finished so as
to audibly reproduce spoken words starting from the word following
the word currently being audibly reproduced and ending with the
last word in the segment; while in a semi-reset mode, when pressing
the CONTINUOUS READ switch, the continuous read mode will be
assumed immediately so as to audibly reproduce spoken words
starting from the word being audibly reproduced last and ending
with the last word in the segment; the semi-reset mode will be
operated automatically after the operation of continuous read mode
is finished; if the PAUSE switch is pressed during audible
reproducing of words, the continuous read mode will be paused
immediately once the phonation of current voice is finished; if the
PAUSE switch is pressed many times, only the odd pressings are
valid; if the PAUSE switch is pressed within the interval of
setting time after the phonation of the voice is finished, the
continuous read mode will be paused immediately, and will be
continued by pressing the PAUSE key again; the REPEAT switch, the
CONTINUOUS READ switch, and the keys are invalid under the
continuous read mode; and the continuous read mode is interrupted
immediately by pressing the POWER ON/RESET key and the semi-reset
mode is assumed immediately.
[0016] In certain class of this embodiment, the semi-reset mode is
assumed automatically after the single read mode, the repeat mode,
or the continuous read mode is finished, or by pressing the POWER
ON/RESET switch during the continuous read mode; while in the
semi-reset mode, the original inputted voice can be repeated or
read continuously and another voice code also can be inputted; and
pressing the POWER ON/RESET switch interrupts the semi-reset mode
immediately and the standby mode is assumed immediately.
[0017] In other aspects of the invention provided is a method for
authoring a combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus
comprising (a) providing a voice phonation apparatus forming an
integral part of a book and comprising (i) a housing with a
plurality of switches and a plurality of keys, (ii) a voice output
unit, and (iii) a control unit having a memory for storing data
representing spoken words and connected to the switches, the keys,
and the voice output unit; (b) providing the book having a
plurality of pages, at least one of which is carrying a plurality
of printed words and a plurality of codes associated with the
words, the printed words being divided into a plurality of
segments; (c) recording the data representing spoken words in the
memory; and (d) performing a digital classification by associating
a code with each the data representing spoken words to be phonated
by the voice output unit.
[0018] In other aspects of the invention provided is a method of
interactive learning comprising (a) providing a combination of a
book and a voice phonation apparatus comprising: a book having a
plurality of pages, at least one of which is carrying a plurality
of printed words and a plurality of codes associated with the
words, the printed words being divided into a plurality of
segments; and a voice phonation apparatus forming an integral part
of the book and comprising (i) a housing with a plurality of
switches and a plurality of keys, (ii) a voice output unit, and
(iii) a control unit having a memory for storing data representing
spoken words and connected to the switches, the keys, and the voice
output unit; wherein the control unit is capable of assuming a
plurality of operational modes and carrying out at least the
following steps: (i) receiving the codes inputted via the keys into
the control unit; (ii) causing the control unit to extract the data
representing spoken word(s) associated with the codes from the
memory; and (iii) causing the voice output unit to audibly
reproduce the spoken word(s); (b) inputting the codes via the keys
into the control unit; (c) causing the control unit to extract the
data representing spoken word(s) associated with the codes from the
memory; and (d) causing the voice output unit to audibly reproduce
the spoken word(s).
[0019] In certain class of this embodiment, the spoken words
contain one or more of: characters, words, phrases, sentences,
articles, and songs in at least one language and an
intertranslation into at least one additional language.
[0020] In certain class of this embodiment, the switches comprise
one or more of the following: a POWER ON/RESET switch, a POWER OFF
switch, a REPEAT switch, a CONTINUOUS READ switch, a PAUSE switch,
a LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch, a VOLUME SETTING switch, a KEYPAD TONE
SETTING switch; wherein the POWER ON/RESET switch and the POWER OFF
switch are preferential operating switches; and pressing any one of
the preferential switches interrupts any operational modes assumed
by the control unit.
[0021] In certain class of this embodiment, the operational modes
comprise one or more of standby mode, setting mode, and segment
operation mode; and the segment operation mode further comprises
one or more of single read mode, repeat mode, continuous read mode,
and semi-reset mode.
[0022] In certain class of this embodiment, the standby mode is
assumed when the POWER ON/RESET switch is pressed; the REPEAT
switch, the CONTINUOUS READ switch, and the PAUSE switch are
disabled in the standby mode; the setting mode allows for selecting
a language in which the spoken words are read by pressing the
LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch; pressing the VOLUME SETTING switch or a
combination of the keys allows for an increase or a decrease of the
volume of spoken words or key tones audibly reproduced by the voice
output unit; optionally, pressing of any of the switches or keys
causes the voice output unit to audibly display a key tone after
the KEYPAD TONE SETTING switch or a combination of the keys is
pressed; and the standby mode is assumed automatically after the
setting mode is completed.
[0023] In certain class of this embodiment, the code is selected
from a segment code and a word code each having one or two numeric
digits; the segment code is inputted first followed by the word
code; the segment operation mode is assumed when the segment code
is inputted as a two digit number, the segment code is inputted as
a one digit number and no other keys are pressed for a
predetermined amount of setting time, 0 is inputted, or an invalid
word code is inputted; the word code can only be inputted in the
segment operation mode; the REPEAT switch, the CONTINUOUS READ
switch, and the PAUSE switch are disabled during the predetermined
amount of setting time; the standby mode is assumed when 0 or an
invalid segment code is inputted, or the POWER ON/RESET switch is
pressed.
[0024] In certain class of this embodiment, while in a single read
mode, if the word code inputted is a two digit number, a spoken
word corresponding to the word code will be audibly reproduced
immediately; if the word code inputted is a one digit number, a
spoken word corresponding to the word code will be audibly
reproduced after the predetermined amount of setting time but only
if no other switch or key is pressed during the predetermined
amount of setting time; the REPEAT switch, the CONTINUOUS READ
switch, or the key(s) can be inputted during the predetermined
amount of setting time, but if the REPEAT switch and the CONTINUOUS
READ switch are inputted only the first inputted switch will be
valid; if one the key is inputted and no other key is pressed
during the predetermined amount of setting time, a spoken word
corresponding to a word code corresponding to one the digit
inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; if multiple keys
are inputted during the predetermined amount of setting time, a
spoken word corresponding to a word code comprised of first two
digits inputted will be audibly reproduced immediately; the PAUSE
switch is invalid.
[0025] In certain class of this embodiment, while in the single
read mode, when pressing the REPEAT switch, the single read mode
will be repeated once after it is finished and the semi-reset mode
has been entered upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically; while in the semi-reset mode, when pressing the
REPEAT switch, the single repeat mode executed last will be
repeated upon which the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically.
[0026] In certain class of this embodiment, while in a single read
mode, when pressing the CONTINUOUS READ switch, the continuous read
mode will be assumed immediately once the semi-reset mode is
assumed after the operation of single read mode is finished so as
to audibly reproduce spoken words starting from the word following
the word currently being audibly reproduced and ending with the
last word in the segment; while in a semi-reset mode, when pressing
the CONTINUOUS READ switch, the continuous read mode will be
assumed immediately so as to audibly reproduce spoken words
starting from the word being audibly reproduced last and ending
with the last word in the segment; the semi-reset mode will be
operated automatically after the operation of continuous read mode
is finished; if the PAUSE switch is pressed during audible
reproducing of words, the continuous read mode will be paused
immediately once the phonation of current voice is finished; if the
PAUSE switch is pressed many times, only the odd pressings are
valid; if the PAUSE switch is pressed within the interval of
setting time after the phonation of the voice is finished, the
continuous read mode will be paused immediately, and will be
continued by pressing the PAUSE key again; the REPEAT switch, the
CONTINUOUS READ switch, and the keys are invalid under the
continuous read mode; and the continuous read mode is interrupted
immediately by pressing the POWER ON/RESET key and the semi-reset
mode is assumed immediately.
[0027] In certain class of this embodiment, the semi-reset mode is
assumed automatically after the single read mode, the repeat mode,
or the continuous read mode is finished, or by pressing the POWER
ON/RESET switch during the continuous read mode; while in the
semi-reset mode, the original inputted voice can be repeated or
read continuously and another voice code also can be inputted; and
pressing the POWER ON/RESET switch interrupts the semi-reset mode
immediately and the standby mode is assumed immediately.
[0028] The voice phonation apparatus of the present invention
adopts code key-press input and search method free from text input,
providing the advantages of quick search, simple configuration, low
cost, and convenient to operation. It can be used widely for the
learning and communication of words, phrases, articles, and songs
of various national languages, so as to improve the language
learning of various nations and drive the harmonic cooperation of
international community.
BRIEF DISCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will
hereinafter be described in more detail with reference to the
accompanying drawings, in which
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a control unit in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention including its the input and
output ports; and
[0031] FIG. 2 is an operation flow chart in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESTRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] A combination of a book and a voice phonation apparatus that
can phonate 1000 frequently used English words is provided,
comprising a housing having a plurality of switches and keys, a
voice output unit, and a control unit having a memory for storing
data representing spoken words, wherein the control unit is
connected to the voice output unit and the plurality of switches
and keys.
[0033] The memory contains 1000 English words that can be phonated
and their corresponding Chinese translation, such as father
corresponds to BABA in Chinese translation, mother--MAMA,
brother--XIONGDI, head--TOU, face--LIAN, leg--TUI, listen--TING,
say--SHUO, know--ZHIDAO, and so on.
[0034] Setting digital and segment identification codes for the
above 1000 words, namely performing digital classification and
coding, as follows:
[0035] the first segment: 1-father BABA, 2-mother MAMA . . . ,
20-brother XIONGDI;
[0036] the second segment: 1-head TOU, 2-face LIAN . . . , 20-leg
TUI;
[0037] . . .
[0038] the fiftieth segment: 1-listen TING, 2-say SHUO . . . ,
20-know ZHIDAO.
[0039] Printing the coded English words and their corresponding
explanations into wordbook, recording the voices sequenced by code
in standard pronunciation, and saving them into memory in
association with the digital codes.
[0040] When in use, the words to be phonated from the wordbook are
selected by inputting the corresponding segment code and word code
by code key-press input and search method, the corresponding
pronunciation of a word will be sought out from the memory by the
control unit and then phonated in standard English pronunciation
(or in any other language or a combination of languages depending
on selection) through the at least one speaker controlled by the
electronic circuit; as required. For example, the Chinese
translation of the voice corresponding to the English words also
can be phonated.
[0041] The wordbook comprises a cardboard outer covering, an
imitating genuine leather jacket, and a lot of inside pages,
wherein said inside pages consists of index pages, word pages,
identification keys, and appendix, said word pages further contain
segment codes and definitions, English word codes, English words
and their corresponding Chinese translations.
[0042] The voice phonation apparatus is fixed within the wordbook,
and includes a control unit, at least one speaker and a code
display screen. The number of 1 to 99 can be inputted to the code
display screen, while 0 is an invalid input. By the main program of
the control unit calling the subprogram of display output, the
digital number to be displayed is outputted through the display
output port and is transformed through the display module and then
is displayed on the LCD (liquid crystal display) screen.
[0043] The control unit includes a memory cell, an input port, an
output port, and a program embedded therein. The apparatus is shut
down automatically if it is not in operation within any 1
minute.
[0044] The capacity of the memory cell is 15 minutes, and is
divided into 50 segments, each segment contains 20 words, each word
lasts 0.9 s, and totally the memory cell contains 1000 voices.
[0045] Referring to FIG. 1, there are 17 input ports altogether,
respectively for power V, ground G, power on/reset S, power off F,
repeat R, continuous read L, pause P, language switch H and ten
digits keys from 0 to 9; the functional switches are respectively
POWER ON/RESET switch, POWER OFF switch, REPEAT switch, CONTINUOUS
READ switch, PAUSE switch, LANGUAGE switch, VOLUME SETTING switch,
and KEYPAD TONE switch, all switches and keys are electrically
connected, all input ports are valid under the conditions of high
voltage input.
[0046] There are 5 output ports altogether, respectively for
speaker Q, keypad tone B, display X, power indicator D, and segment
code indicator Y.
[0047] The program consists of one main program and 8 subprograms.
The 8 subprograms are respectively for power on/reset control,
power off control, display output, speaker volume control, speaker
sound output, language switch output, keypad tone control, and
segment operating control.
[0048] The operational modes of the control unit comprise a standby
mode, a setting mode, and a segment operation mode, wherein the
segment operation mode comprises a single read mode, a repeat mode,
a continuous read mode, and a semi-reset mode; under the continuous
read mode, the operations of continuous read and pause can be
started or cancelled.
[0049] The POWER ON/RESET and POWER OFF are preferential switches.
The operation will be reset or shut down immediately once the POWER
ON/RESET or POWER OFF switch is pressed under any operation mode.
In the standby mode, the REPEAT switch, CONTINUOUS READ switch, and
PAUSE switch are invalid, the POWER ON/RESET switch is valid, and
the display screen will flicker the number of 0 one time once the
POWER ON/RESET key is pressed.
[0050] The standby mode will be operated once the POWER ON/RESET
switch is pressed, the control unit will be in a state of awaiting
for the input of segment code of the voice to be phonated in the
voice output unit. The rechargeable battery will be started after
the apparatus is powered on so as to supply the power input port V
of the control unit with +3.6V power. The control unit will then
come into operation, and in the meantime, the reset input port S of
the control unit is supplied with high voltage. Once the main
program of the control unit detects that the reset input port S of
the control unit is supplied with a high voltage, the subprogram of
power on/reset will be started so as to supply the output port Y of
the indicator of segment code with a low voltage so that the
indicator of segment code will not work, and in the meantime, the
subprogram of display output will be called so as to send the
number 0 to the display output port X, which is then displayed on
the LCD screen. The control unit is then in a state of awaiting for
the input of segment code.
[0051] The selectable setting mode can be operated under the
standby mode, the default setting can be changed by pressing
randomly one or more of the following LANGUAGE SELECTION switch,
KEYPAD TONE switch, and VOLUME SETTING switch. The default factory
settings are English output, with keypad tone output, and medium
speaker volume output. The control unit will memorize the operation
settings once the parameters are set, the operation settings will
be the default settings when the apparatus is powered on next time,
and can be stored permanently. The standby mode will be assumed
automatically once the setting is finished.
[0052] By pressing the LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch, the main program
of the control unit detects that the language switch input port H
of the control unit is supplied with a high voltage, the subprogram
of the display output will be called so as to send the number 0 to
the display output port X, which is then displayed on the LCD
screen. In the meantime, the subprogram of language switch control
will be started, the corresponding language voice in the memory
cell will be in a state of readiness. The corresponding memory cell
will be changed once the LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch is pressed.
Accordingly, the output language can be English, Chinese, or
English-Chinese bilingual.
[0053] By pressing the KEYPAD TONE switch, or selecting keys 98
combined by the digital keys 9 and 8, the main program of the
control unit detects that the number at the digital input port of
the control unit is 98, the subprogram of display output will be
called so as to send the number of 98 to the display output port X,
which is then displayed on the LCD screen. In the meantime, the
subprogram of keypad tone control is started so as to supply a
voltage to the output port B of keypad tone control of the control
unit, the voltage will be changed once the 98 is pressed, and
correspondingly, the output of the keypad tone is with and without
sound respectively.
[0054] By pressing the VOLUME switch or pressing keys 99, combined
by pressing the digital key 9 two times, the main program of the
control unit detects that the number at the digital input port of
the control unit is 99, the subprogram of display output will be
called so as to send the number 99 to the display output port X,
which is then displayed on the LCD screen. In the meantime, the
subprogram of the speaker volume control is started so as to supply
a voltage to the volume output port Q of the speaker of the control
unit, the voltage will be changed once the keys 99 are pressed, and
correspondingly, the volume output of the speaker is high, medium,
and low.
[0055] Under the standby mode, the segment operation mode will be
operated if the segment code inputted is valid. If the segment code
inputted is a two-digital number, for example, is 12, the indicator
of segment code will work so as to indicate that the segment mode
is being operated; if the inputted segment code is a one-digital
number, for example, is 2, and no other digital key is pressed
within the setting time such as 0.5 s, then the current segment
will be the default segment. If the main program of the control
unit in standby mode detects that the number at the digital input
port of the control unit is 2, the subprogram of the segment
operation control will be started to set 2 as the segment code. At
the same time, the second segment in the memory cell corresponding
to the segment code 2 will be started, so that the voice of all
words in the segment will be in a state of readiness. In the
meantime, the subprogram of display output is called so as to send
the number of 2 to the display output port X, which is then
displayed on the LCD screen, the indicator of segment code will
work so as to indicate the segment mode is being operated. Within
the setting time such as 0.5 s, the REPEAT switch, CONTINUOUS READ
switch, and PAUSE switch are invalid. The standby mode will be
operated automatically if 0 or invalid segment code is
inputted.
[0056] In the segment operation mode, the indicator of the segment
code is operational, and the LCD screen displays the segment code
and is in a state of awaiting for the input of the word code. The
segment operational mode will be operated automatically when 0 or
invalid word code is inputted, and the LCD screen will display the
number 0. By pressing the POWER ON/RESET switch, the main program
of the control unit under the standby mode detects that the input
port of the POWER ON/RESET switch of the control unit is supplied
with a high voltage, the control subprogram of the POWER ON/RESET
switch will be started, and then the standby mode will be operated
automatically.
[0057] In the segment operational mode, the single read mode will
be operated when a valid word code is inputted. If the word code
inputted is a two-digital number, for example, is 13, the word
corresponding to the code will be phonated immediately. If the word
code inputted is a one-digital number, for example, is 3, and no
other digital keys are pressed within the setting time such as 0.5
s, the number of 3 will be defaulted, the subprogram of the segment
operation control of the control unit detects that the number at
the digital input port of the control unit is 3, the word 3 in the
second segment of the memory cell corresponding to the segment code
2 will be started and phonated through the output port Q of the
speaker in a volume controlled by the subprogram of the speaker
volume control. In the meantime, the subprogram of display output
will be called so as to send a number of 3 to the display output
port X, which is then displayed on the LCD screen. The semi-reset
mode will be operated automatically within 1 s after the phonation
of the word is finished, namely, the LCD screen will display the
original word code. Within the setting time such as 0.5 s, the
REPEAT switch and CONTINUOUS READ switch can be pressed. During the
operation of single read mode, the REPEAT and CONTINUOUS READ
switches can be pressed or other word code can be inputted. If the
REPEAT switch or CONTINUOUS READ switch is firstly pressed, only
the first press is valid while other presses are invalid. If a
digital key is firstly pressed, and no other digital key is pressed
within the setting time such as 0.5 s, the pressed number will be
defaulted. If multiple digital keys are pressed, the numbers on the
first two keys pressed within the interval of setting time such as
0.5 s are defaulted, and will be operated immediately once the
semi-reset mode is operated after the operation of single read mode
is finished. The PAUSE key is invalid in single read mode.
[0058] During the operation of single read mode or under the
semi-reset mode, the repeat mode will be operated by pressing the
REPEAT switch. For example, during the operation of single read
mode with a segment code of 2 and a word code of 3, by pressing the
REPEAT switch, the subprogram of segment operation control of the
control unit under segment operation mode detects that the repeat
input port R of the control unit is supplied with a high voltage,
the repeat mode will be operated immediately once the semi-reset
mode is operated automatically after the operation of single read
mode of the word code 3 is finished, namely, the word 3 in the
second segment of the memory cell corresponding to the segment code
2 will be operated again, and the word 3 will be phonated through
the output port of the speaker, and the display on the LCD screen
continues to display the number 3. After the operation of repeat
mode is finished, the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically. Under the semi-reset mode, the repeat mode will be
operated immediately once the REPEAT key is pressed; once the
operation of repeat mode is finished, the semi-reset mode will then
be entered automatically.
[0059] During the operation of the single read mode or under the
semi-reset mode, the continuous read mode will be operated by
pressing the CONTINUOUS READ switch. For example, during the
operation of single read mode with a segment code of 2 and a word
code of 3, by pressing the CONTINUOUS READ switch, the subprogram
of the segment operation control of the control unit under segment
operation mode detects that the continuous read input port L of the
control unit is supplied with a high voltage. The continuous read
mode will be operated immediately once the semi-reset mode is
entered automatically after the operation of single read mode of
word code 3 is finished, namely, phonation of the words
corresponding to the word codes from 4 to 20 will be started
continuously with an time interval of 1 s. Under the semi-reset
mode, by pressing the CONTINUOUS READ switch, the phonation from
the original word code 3 will be started continuously. The
semi-reset mode will be operated automatically after the operation
of continuous read mode is finished.
[0060] During the phonation of a word within the continuous read
mode, if the PAUSE key is pressed one or more times, only the odd
pressings are valid. The subprogram of segment operation control of
the control unit under the segment operation mode detects that the
pause input port P of the control unit is supplied with a high
voltage, the subprogram of the pause control will be called, after
the phonation of the word is finished, the pause mode will be
operate. Within the time range of about 1.about.60 s, by pressing
the PAUSE key once again, the subprogram of the segment operation
control of the control unit detects that the pause input port P of
the control unit is supplied again with a high voltage, the
subprogram of the pause control will be called so as to cancel the
pause mode and continue to operate the continuous read mode. The
REPEAT switch, CONTINUOUS READ switch, and digital keys are invalid
within the operation of the continuous read mode. During the
operation of the continuous read mode, by pressing the POWER
ON/RESET switch, the main program of the control unit under
continuous read mode detects that the input port for the power
on/reset switch of the control unit is supplied with a high
voltage, the subprogram of the power on/reset control will be
started so as to interrupt the operation, and therefore, the
semi-reset mode will again be entered automatically.
[0061] The semi-reset mode will be entered after the operation of
the single read mode, repeat mode or the continuous read mode is
finished or by pressing the POWER ON/RESET switch within the
operation of the continuous read mode, and the original word code
will be displayed on the LCD screen. In the semi-reset mode, the
setting mode as well as the repeat mode or continuous read mode on
the original word also can be operated, or another word code can be
inputted so that various operations can be performed. Under the
semi-reset mode, by pressing the POWER ON/RESET switch, the
operation will be interrupted immediately, and the standby mode
will be entered automatically.
[0062] The operations of single read, repeat, and continuous read
for the word 3 of the second segment, the word 20 of the second
segment, and the word 2 of the eleventh segment will be exemplified
as follows:
[0063] (1) powering firstly the apparatus on, the power indicator
will work, while the indicator of segment code will not work, and
the number of 0 will be displayed on the LCD screen;
[0064] (2) pressing the LANGUAGE SELECTOR switch two times so as to
set the voice output as English-Chinese bilingual; inputting the
number of 98 combined by digital keys to set that there is no
keypad tone output; inputting the number of 99 combined by digital
keys to set that the volume output of the speaker is high;
[0065] (3) inputting segment code 2, the indicator of segment code
works, the number of 2 is displayed on the LCD screen; inputting
word code 3, the number of 3 will be displayed on the LCD screen;
operating the single read mode of word 3, the English and Chinese
phonations of word 3 will be outputted orderly through the output
port of the speaker, the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically after the phonation is finished, the number displayed
on the LCD screen remains 3.
[0066] If the word 3 needs to be repeated, pressing the REPEAT
switch during the operation of single read mode of word 3 so as to
perform the repeat operation of word 3, namely, the single read
operation of word 3 will be performed one more time, the semi-reset
mode will be operated automatically after the operation of single
read mode is finished.
[0067] If the words from 3 to 20 need to be read continuously,
pressing the CONTINUOUS READ switch during the operation of the
single read mode of word 3 so as to enter semi-reset mode
automatically after the operation of single read mode of word 3 is
finished, then the operation of continuous read of words from 4 to
20 will be started at once, the interval between the single read of
each word is 1 s; the semi-reset mode will be operated
automatically after the operation of continuous read mode is
finished.
[0068] If the operation of the continuous read mode needs to be
paused, for example, the operation needs to be paused after the
single read of word 10 is finished, if the PAUSE key is pressed one
or more odd times during the operation of single read of word 10,
the operation will be paused immediately after the phonation of
word 10 is finished; if the PAUSE key is pressed within 1 s after
the phonation of word 10 is finished, the operation will be paused
immediately. The operation of continuous read mode will be resumed
once the PAUSE key is pressed again.
[0069] If the operation of the continuous read mode needs to be
interrupted and exited, for example, if the operation needs to be
exited after the single read of word 10 is finished, by pressing
the POWER ON/RESET key during the operation of single read mode, or
within 1 s after the phonation of word 10, the operation will be
interrupted immediately, the number of 3 will be displayed on the
LCD screen, and the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically.
[0070] In the semi-reset mode with the number of 3 displayed on the
LCD screen, if the phonation of word 3 needs to be repeated, by
pressing the REPEAT switch, the word 3 will be phonated once again;
if the words need to be read continuously, by pressing the
CONTINUOUS READ switch, the phonation of the words from 4 to 20
will be started immediately, with a time interval between two words
being 1 s. The semi-reset mode will be entered automatically after
the operation of continuous read is finished.
[0071] (4) In the semi-reset mode with the number of 3 displayed on
the LCD screen, inputting the number of 20, which will then be
displayed on the LCD screen; the single read mode of the word 20
will be operated, and the phonation of word 20 will be outputted
through the output port of the speaker, the display on the LCD
screen is kept unchanged as 20, the semi-reset mode will be entered
automatically after the operation of single read mode is finished.
The REPEAT switch can be pressed so as to repeat the phonation of
word 20. There are only 20 words on the second page. If the
CONTINUOUS READ switch is pressed, only the phonation of word 20
can be repeated.
[0072] (5) Pressing the POWER ON/RESET switch, the indicator of
segment code will not work, and the number of 0 will be displayed
on the LCD screen; then repeating the steps of (3) and (4), the
single read, repeat, and continuous read of word 2 in eleventh
segment can be operated by changing the input of segment code and
word code only.
[0073] While particular embodiments of the invention have been
shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art
that changes and modifications may be made without departing from
the invention in its broader aspects, and therefore, the aim in the
appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as
fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *